
We’re all about offering more for your money here in Memphis–where you don’t have to sacrifice fun for affordability. Used correctly, a budget doesn’t restrict you; it empowers you. Get a taste of affordable luxury and plan a trip to Memphis today. We’ll show you the best way to spend $50 a day in the Home of the Blues because there is a lot you can do to stretch your dollars.
We’re all about offering more for your money here in Memphis–where you don’t have to sacrifice fun for affordability. Used correctly, a budget doesn’t restrict you; it empowers you. Get a taste of affordable luxury and plan a trip to Memphis today. We’ll show you the best way to spend $50 a day in the Home of the Blues because there is a lot you can do to stretch your dollars.




MORNINGS:
Go Walking in Memphis through Tom Lee Park or Big River Crossing
Staying in a downtown hotel? Start your day with a sunrise walk along the Mississippi riverfront at the newly renovated Tom Lee Park. Relax in the hammock grove or let the kids adore the river-themed playground featuring giant otters, sturgeons, and cypress trees. Explore the nature paths or work up a sweat at the fitness zone. Feeling adventurous early in the day? Take the connecting paths from the park to Big River Crossing. Free!
Grab breakfast at an iconic Memphis spot.
Head next to Sunrise Memphis for one of their delicious biscuit sandwiches. What to order “The Rooster” Biscuit Sammie ($6.50) and J Brooks Coffee’s Spirit of Memphis (light roast) for $3.50. Don’t forget to tip! Total: $12
Take a Trolley Ride and Get the Daily Pass
For just $2 a day, you can have unlimited access to the downtown trolley system. Hop on the vintage trolleys to make your way north or south downtown or just to enjoy a breezy easy ride. The trolleys connect the Pinch District, the core of downtown, Beale Street, and the South Main Arts District. Total: $2
MIDDAY:
Visit the Peabody Hotel for the Duck March
No trip to Memphis is complete without witnessing the famous Peabody Ducks. Head to the historic Peabody Hotel around 11 AM to catch the iconic Duck March. In ceremonial fashion, a troop of ducks parade from their rooftop home down to the grand lobby’s fountain, where they splash around. Free!
Tip: Busy during the day? Catch the march in reverse at 5 p.m. when they head back to their home in their rooftop suite.
Grub on some local barbecue at Payne’s Bar-B-Que
At Payne’s Bar-B-Que, unassuming and no frills isn’t a bad thing. They focus on the only thing that matters–tasty barbecue. If you want to eat like locals do, this is the spot. What to order: Locals love the chopped pork sandwich topped with the tangiest coleslaw. Make it a jumbo and it’s still only $5.50. Add a smoked sausage for $3.00 if you’re really hungry. Total: $10.50
Walk Off Lunch with a Stroll through the Dixon Gallery & Gardens
Wander through the galleries and take a relaxing stroll through the gardens for a perfect blend of culture and nature at the Dixon Gallery & Gardens where admission is free. The garden blooms with hundreds of different flowers and plants throughout the year. In Spring, the tulips are a staple and in the fall, the pumpkin house is a popular new Dixon tradition. Like the greenery, the art exhibitions inside are always changing. Free!




DINNER:
Head to Beale for Blues and Big Beers
America’s most iconic street is ready to welcome you for some pre-dinner fun. Stroll Beale Street and follow the path of the Beale Street Brass Notes showcasing all of those who put Memphis music and Beale Street on the world map. Listen to the beat of the blues flowing out of the clubs and stop inside for a drink. What to order: A big beer from Silky O’Sullivan’s is $6. Don’t forget to head outside to see the goats! Total: $7
Grab Dinner at Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken
Make your way to Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken. Known for its spicy and crispy fried chicken, Gus’s is a Memphis institution. Come for the chicken, stay for the charming old-school dining space. What to order: A two-piece chicken meal with a side of baked beans and slaw is just $11, but the flavor is priceless. Total: $13.50
End the night at a free Overton Park Shell Concert
Hit the Orion Free Concert Series at the Overton Park Shell to finish the night. This historic amphitheater, where Elvis first graced the stage, hosts free live concerts every summer and fall hosting big names and notable Memphis acts. Check their schedule ahead of time to see what performances are happening during your visit. Free!
Tip: Food and drinks can be brought in at no charge.
Let's add it all up!
Total is: $45!
Please note: A 20% tip was factored into all food and drink orders. Tax was not included. If personal transportation isn't available, a ride-share or taxi may be required to visit some of the mentioned locations. This budget accounts for one person.